Tom Walsh of Orange Park Acres has been a volunteer in Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) for five years. The first responder supports those emotionally traumatized and helps police, firefighters and hospital personnel. Walsh goes on calls, serves as dispatcher, and mentors others in how to support people during "the terrible hours." He's in front of Irvine's Orange County Fire Authority. CINDY YAMANAKA, ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

Tom Walsh

Age: 61

Residence: Orange

Favorite charity: Trauma Intervention Program (TIP)

How to help: Contact TIP at www.tiporangecounty.org. For help resources: www.whentragedystrikes.org. To sign up for the first TIP Golf Tournament Fundraiser on May 8, go to http://0343e6b.netsolhost.com/golftournament.html

“I have never seen him shaken. He is the even keel you need when chaos is surrounding you.”

--Kristi Batiste, TIP crisis team co-manager

“He has the quality of empathy and the strength and fortitude to do this year after year. TIP comes in front of his personal wants and needs.”

--Steve Kaller, longtime friend

The "Montage Everyday Hero" for March is Orange resident Tom Walsh, a stalwart volunteer of the Trauma Intervention Program.

For five years, Walsh has served as volunteer, dispatcher and mentor to others serving in the program, which offers "emotional first aid" to those who have lost a loved one suddenly or witnessed a traumatic event. He is also spearheading the first golf tournament fundraiser for TIP.

Walsh's story was featured in the "Everyday Heroes" column that runs every Monday in the Local section of the Register. For his tireless efforts to help others through what trauma workers call "the horrible hours," Walsh will receive a two-night stay at the luxury beachfront hotel, Montage Laguna Beach.

Walsh will also be recognized in a brief ceremony April 17 at the Ducks game in Anaheim. His story was selected by an editorial team from among the four heroes featured in March.

"Tom exemplifies the selflessness, bravery and service that Everyday Heroes strives to highlight. His quiet humility belies the big impact his work makes in our community," said Ken Brusic, editor of the Orange County Register.

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